Date:09/01/2003 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2003/01/09/stories/2003010903331300.htm

National

Interlinking of rivers

Radha Singh, Director-General, National Water Development Agency, New Delhi, writes:

We wish to correct several of the apprehensions raised by Medha Patkar and Aravinda in their article (Dec. 3) on interlinking of rivers. To say the least these apprehensions are misplaced and misconceived. In fact, the concept of inter-basin transfer of water per se is by no means new to this country or others that have implemented schemes of similar nature.

Inter-basin transfer is an outstanding example of effective and efficient management of water resources on the basis of need and equity. The Government established a national water development agency in July 1982 to explore the scientific, technological, socio-economic and environmental feasibility of transferring water from water surplus areas to the deficit ones. The gigantic technical task was divided into two components: the Himalayan rivers development and the peninsula river development.

The National Water Development Agency (NWDA) has already conducted scientific studies dealing with water balances in various basins/sub-basins. Before establishing the feasibility of any link, the agency has meticulously studied all relevant ecological and environmental concerns and to include all ameliorative and mitigative measures to keep the sustainability of the system intact. No doubt, the task envisages some large dams. The consequent displacement, rehabilitation and resettlement of the project-affected people not only pose a challenge but also provide an opportunity that would be countered with liberal and enlightened packages.

The studies are scientific and incorporate relevant data on surveys and investigations, geological, geophysical and geo-technical, soil surveys of the command areas, appropriate cropping patterns, socio and ecological impacts including afforestation and compensatory afforestation.